Is the 1.2T engine powerful enough for the Sagitar?
3 Answers
From the specifications, this 1.2T engine delivers impressive power with 116 horsepower and 175N·m of torque. Such power output would be quite aggressive for compact or micro cars. However, the Sagitar, as an A+ segment sedan, has larger dimensions resulting in higher aerodynamic drag, and its body mass isn't light either. While it performs adequately for city driving at moderate speeds, it may feel somewhat underpowered on highways. From a technical perspective of the 1.2T engine: 1. Electronically Controlled Turbo Wastegate: The Sagitar's 1.2T engine reintroduces the electronically controlled turbo wastegate. The word "reintroduces" indicates that Volkswagen had previously used but later abandoned this technology. The reason for abandonment was that the electronic control system near the turbocharger had to endure extremely high temperatures, leading to frequent failures. Now that this technology is being used again, given Volkswagen's premium positioning, any failure in the electronic components could render the entire system inoperable. 2. Timing Belt: On another note, this 1.2T engine employs a timing belt. While timing belts are subject to aging, they can also be designed for lifetime maintenance-free operation. Compared to timing chains, timing belts have their advantages, notably quieter operation.
I often drive this car in the city, and it feels quite handy during traffic jams on my commute. The start-up isn't sluggish, and it's sufficient for overtaking small cars. The acceleration speed depends on how deep you press the throttle—don't expect high-speed thrills, but it handles daily commutes without any pressure. The car isn't heavy, making turns flexible, and with its small engine, the fuel consumption is low, saving a lot of money after a day's drive. Of course, it might struggle a bit when fully loaded with luggage or on steep slopes, but it's fine on gentle roads—just shift gears early if needed. In short, if you're an average person driving mostly in the city, this power is genuinely suitable and won't cause you any trouble.
As someone who frequently drives long distances, this car feels quite stable on the highway. The power delivery is smooth during cruising, with no floating or swaying. When overtaking large trucks, you need to step on the throttle more aggressively—there's some lag, but it's manageable. The acceleration response is a bit slower than a 1.4T engine, which is expected given its smaller displacement. It does feel underpowered when heavily loaded; climbing hills with a full trunk can be challenging, so speed control is crucial. Key takeaway? It performs decently on open roads, and combined with its fuel efficiency, it's very economical for long trips. I recommend testing its hard acceleration feel to ensure it matches your driving style—don't expect thrilling power.
